Eleven People Charged in Drug Conspiracy

U.S. Attorney’s Office
October 31, 2012

Eastern District of Missouri

ST. LOUIS, MO—Eleven area people have been indicted on multiple charges involving a conspiracy to distribute cocaine and heroin in the Eastern District of Missouri beginning as early as 2009 and continuing until the present time. They defendants are expected to appear in federal court this afternoon.

Individuals indicted:

Raymond Moore, Florissant, Missouri;

Tajuan Wilson, Dellwood, Missouri;

Darron Scott, St. Louis, Missouri;

Christopher Whitte, Alton, Illinois;

Otis Hughes, Kinloch, Missouri;

Brian Cornell, St. Louis, Missouri;

James Butler, St. Louis, Missouri;

Curtis Hughes, Kinloch, Missouri;

Vincent Balducci, Florissant, Missouri;

Rachelle Payne, Maryland Heights, Missouri; and

Brice Fowler, Sr., Maryland Heights, Missouri

If convicted, conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, cocaine base, and heroin carries a penalty range of 10 years to life in prison. In determining the actual sentences, a judge is required to consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide recommended sentencing ranges.

Additionally, upon a finding of guilt, the defendants will be subject to a forfeiture allegation, which will require them to forfeit to the government all money derived from their illegal activity.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, and St. Louis County Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany Becker is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

As is always the case, charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.